Surfrider Foundation: Rincón, Puerto Rico

THE SOLUTION:

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Tres Palmas photo

Rincón continues to be threatened by development year after year. We want to find a permanent solution to protecting Rincón instead of fighting individual battles, year after year.

We are working with the Puerto Rico Department of Natural Resources and the Speaker of the House in Puerto Rico on a three-step plan. Because the final solution will require time and extensive coordination, we will work in stages. This plan was developed in collaboration with government officials, local environmentalists, surfers and environmental groups.

First Step: Protect the coral reef

In concert with local fisherman we are working to recreate a marine reserve surrounding the Tres Palmas reef to protect the sensitive species. Once established, a management plan for the reserve will be developed with local and scientific input.

The reef is very sensitive to sedimentation and impacts from poor water quality. Both of these are associated with construction and development.

Click here to see the marine reserve map

Second Step: Protect the land and beaches adjacent to the reef

To ensure that the beaches and the reef get special protection, we are proposing that the land area be designated a Special Planning Area. This will ensure that any proposed development will be thoroughly analyzed to ensure minimal environmental impacts.

These two designations will allow time to work with the Puerto Rican Commonwealth Government, The Department of Natural Resources, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Mayor of Rincón, local landowners and various local and international nonprofit groups to work out the details for permanent protection of the Tres Palmas area.

Click here to see the special planning area map

Final Stage: Permanent protection

The long term goal and solution for permanent protection of the Tres Palmas region and Rincón is a Nature Reserve that protects the land, beaches, natural resources and reefs while providing public access for recreation. This will require a collaborative effort with the locals, government, land owners and environmental groups.

This plan, however, can only work if the community gets organized and demonstrates the public will.

Click here to see the nature reserve map